STEVE Bruce has praised striker DJ Campbell for making himself a first choice and putting Mikael Forssell and Cameron Jerome in the shade.

STEVE Bruce has praised striker DJ Campbell for making himself a first choice and putting Mikael Forssell and Cameron Jerome in the shade.

The former non-leaguer was exceptional in pre-season after being told a few home truths.

And he has carried his form on in the Championship and League Cup, which has pleased his boss.

"Your forget that he's only had one pre-season, so he's probably benefited most from what we did," said Bruce.

"He's probably never worked as hard in his life before. He scored two hat-tricks, and scored in almost every game we played.

"So it was always in the back of my mind that he could start the season and a few eyebrows were raised when I picked him ahead of Cameron for our first match. I had to give him his nod because he has looked so sharp and good in training and in the pre-season games."

Bruce felt that Campbell was coasting initially after reporting back.

"He needed a kick up the backside. But he knuckled down and has done terrifically. I just detected that he was delighted to be here, instead of trying to make a huge contribution. We can understand that because, a year or so ago, he was driving a van for a living.

"But he's certainly shook me up and given me a nice headache, he's done very well."

Campbell scored on the opening day against Colchester United, only to injure his thigh. He returned last Saturday against Crystal Palace and caused problems with his dribbling, pace and movement.